Methods of using elastomeric components

ABSTRACT

A method includes fitting an elastomeric component about a perimeter surface of a tool that includes a longitudinal axis, the elastomeric component including carbon-based nanoplatelets in an elastomeric matrix; and tripping the tool into a bore in a geologic formation.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a divisional of U.S. Patent Application PublicationNo. 2017/0370174, which was filed on Jun. 23, 2016, and is incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Equipment used in the oil and gas industry may be exposed tohigh-temperature and/or high-pressure environments. Such environmentsmay also be chemically harsh, for example, consider environments thatmay include chemicals such as hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, etc.Various types of environmental conditions can damage equipment.

SUMMARY

A method according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosureincludes fitting an elastomeric component about a perimeter surface of atool that includes a longitudinal axis, the elastomeric componentincluding carbon-based nanoplatelets in an elastomeric matrix; andtripping the tool into a bore in a geologic formation.

A method according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosureincludes fitting a first elastomeric component about a perimeter surfaceof a tool that includes a longitudinal axis, the first elastomericcomponent including carbon-based nanoplatelets in an elastomeric matrix,fitting a second elastomeric component about the tool with respect tothe first elastomeric component, and tripping the tool into a bore in ageologic formation. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc.,are also disclosed.

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that arefurther described below in the detailed description. This summary is notintended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subjectmatter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope ofthe claimed subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features and advantages of the described implementations can be morereadily understood by reference to the following description taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 illustrates examples of equipment in a geologic environment;

FIG. 2 illustrates examples of equipment;

FIG. 3 illustrates an example of equipment;

FIG. 4 illustrates examples of a packer assemblies;

FIG. 5 illustrates examples of structures;

FIG. 6 illustrates examples of structures;

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a method;

FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a method;

FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a plot;

FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a plot;

FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a plot;

FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a method;

FIG. 13 illustrates an example of equipment;

FIG. 14 illustrates examples of equipment;

FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a method;

FIG. 16 illustrates an example of a method;

FIG. 17 illustrates an example of a system; and

FIG. 18 illustrates example components of a system and a networkedsystem.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description includes the best mode presently contemplatedfor practicing the described implementations. This description is not tobe taken in a limiting sense, but rather is made merely for the purposeof describing the general principles of the implementations. The scopeof the described implementations should be ascertained with reference tothe issued claims.

An elastomeric material can include one or more types of polymers thatcan be characterized by viscoelasticity (e.g., viscosity and elasticity)that results in a relatively low Young's modulus (E) and a relativelyhigh failure strain in comparison with non-elastomeric materials. As anexample, an elastomeric material or elastomer may include or be rubber,which can be a vulcanisate. As an example, monomers that link to formpolymers can include carbon and hydrogen and, for example, oxygen and/orsilicon. Elastomers tend to be amorphous polymers existing above theirglass transition temperature, which can allow for segmental motion. Atambient temperatures, rubbers tend to be relatively soft (e.g., E of theorder of about 3 MPa) and deformable.

Elastomers that exist without reinforcing material (e.g., reinforcement)can be limited for use in high-performance applications as theirstrength may be about ten times lower than in a reinforced state (e.g.,as an elastomeric material that includes one or more elastomers and oneor more other types of material).

As an example, a reinforcing material can include silica orcarbon-black. Such reinforcing materials find use as fillers inelastomeric materials, which may be used to form elastomeric seals(e.g., packers, plugs, misc. seals, etc.).

Packer elastomers can lose mechanical properties as temperatureincreases. For example, mechanical properties of hydrogenated nitrilebutadiene rubber (HNBR) can be decreased at temperatures of about 160degrees C. (e.g., about 325 degrees F.) and mechanical properties ofAFLAS™ fluororubber (Asahi Glass Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) can bedecreased at temperatures of about 220 degrees C. (e.g., about 425degrees F.).

As an example, an elastomeric component may be formed via mixing one ormore elastomers (e.g., in polymer and/or monomer forms) together withone or more types of fillers as reinforcements. As an example, a methodfor forming an elastomeric component or components may include curing(e.g., polymerization, cross-linking, etc.). As an example, anelastomeric component can be formed according to a mechanical design.For example, consider an arrangement of components that can include oneor more elastomeric components and optionally one or morenon-elastomeric components (e.g., metal, hard plastic, ceramic, etc.).

As an example, a method can include additional of one or morereinforcements, mixing, processing to form one or more elastomericcomponents. As an example, a method can include adding one or more typesof nanoscale reinforcements. For example, consider nanoscale particulatematerial that may be referred to as nanoparticles, noting that ananoscale particulate material can include one or more dimensions thatmay be greater than nanoscale (e.g., consider nanofibers, nanoplates,etc.). As an example, nanoparticles may be particles that include adimension or dimensions in a range from about 1 to about 100 nanometers.As an example, in nanotechnology, a particle may be defined as a smallobject that behaves as a unit with respect to its transport andproperties. As an example, particles may be classified according to adimension such as diameter and/or, for example, a maximum dimension anda minimum dimension. As an example, ultrafine particles can be particlesthat include a dimension (e.g., diameter) in a range of about 1 to about100 nanometers; whereas, fine particles may be larger (e.g., in a rangeof about 100 to about 2,500 nanometers).

As an example, an elastomeric material may be utilized as part of apacker. As an example, a packer can be a device or part of a device, anassembly, a system, etc., that can be run into a bore where the packerincludes an initial outside dimension (e.g., diameter, radius, etc.)that can be expanded, for example, to form a seal (e.g., with the bore).In such an example, a bore may be a bore of tubing, casing, etc. or, forexample, a bore may be an earthen bore (e.g., a rock formation bore,etc.).

As an example, a packer can employ one or more elastomeric components(e.g., elastomeric elements) that can be expanded. For example, considera production or test packer and an inflatable packer. As to a productionor test packer, expansion may be accomplished by squeezing one or moreelastomeric elements, which may be somewhat doughnut shaped, betweenplates to thereby force the one or more elastomeric elements to bulge(e.g., outwardly). As to an inflatable packer, expansion may beaccomplished by pumping a fluid into a bladder where fluid pressurecauses the packer to expand. As an example, a production or test packermay be set in a cased hole and an inflatable packer may be used in anopen hole or a cased hole. As an example, a packer may be run onwireline, pipe and/or coiled tubing. As an example, a packer may bedesigned to be removable and/or may be designed to be permanent. As anexample, a permanent packer may be constructed of one or more materialsthat can be drilled and/or milled out.

As an example, a packer can be a downhole device that can be used in acompletion to isolate an annulus from production conduit, which mayallow for enabling controlled production, injection and/or treatment. Asan example, a packer assembly can include a securing mechanism that cansecure the packer against a casing and/or a liner wall. For example,consider a slip arrangement and a mechanism that can create a reliablehydraulic seal to isolate an annulus, for example, via an expandableelastomeric element. As an example, a packer may be classified by one ormore types of applications of use, one or more setting methods and/orretrievability and/or permanence.

As an example, an elastomeric material may be utilized to form a packeror one or more other types of elastomeric components. As an example,such a component or components may be formulated with one or morereinforcing materials to raise one or more operational limits whencompared to elastomers without such one or more reinforcing materials(e.g., NBR, HNBR, AFLAS™ fluororubber, EPDM (e.g.,Ethylene-Propylene-Diene-Monomer rubber), etc.). As an example, anelastomeric material may provide for use in a greater H₂S concentrationenvironment.

As an example, a packer can be or include an elastomeric ring that maybe expanded radially in one or more of various manners such as, forexample, via mechanical manipulation (e.g., rotation, etc.), inflation,compression, etc. As an example, force to compress an elastomeric ringmay be provided by hydraulic pressure, weight and/or other mechanism. Asan example, a wellbore operation being performed may dictate a type ofpacker to be utilized (e.g., inflatable, hydraulically set, weight set,etc.) and may dictate whether a packer is to be retrievable orpermanent.

As an example, one or more packers may be utilized in a wellbore testingoperation such as, for example, a drillstem testing operation (“DST”).For example, for the purpose of measuring a characteristic of a well(e.g., formation pressure, flow rates, etc.) of a subterraneanformation, a tubular test string may be dispose in a wellbore thatextends into the formation. To test a particular region, or zone, of theformation the test string may include a perforating gun that is used toform perforation tunnels, or fractures, in portions of the formationsurrounding the wellbore, optionally via perforations through casing. Insuch an example, to isolate a test zone (e.g., from a surface of thewell), the test string may carry a packer to be set at the desiredlocation in the well.

As an example, a geologic environment or downhole environment may be aharsh environment and/or an environment that may be classified as beinga high-pressure and high-temperature environment. A so-called HPHTenvironment may include pressures up to about 138 MPa (e.g., about20,000 psi) and temperatures up to about 205 degrees C. (e.g., about 400degrees F.), a so-called ultra-HPHT environment may include pressures upto about 241 MPa (e.g., about 35,000 psi) and temperatures up to about260 degrees C. (e.g., about 500 degrees F.) and a so-called HPHT-hcenvironment may include pressures greater than about 241 MPa (e.g.,about 35,000 psi) and temperatures greater than about 260 degrees C.(e.g., about 500 degrees F.). As an example, an environment may beclassified based in one of the aforementioned classes based on pressureor temperature alone. As an example, an environment may have itspressure and/or temperature elevated, for example, through use ofequipment, techniques, etc. For example, a SAGD operation may elevatetemperature of an environment (e.g., by 100 degrees C. or more).

As an example, an environment may be classified based at least in parton its chemical composition. For example, where an environment includeshydrogen sulfide (H₂S), carbon dioxide (CO₂), etc., the environment maybe corrosive to certain materials. As an example, an environment may beclassified based at least in part on particulate matter that may be in afluid (e.g., suspended, entrained, etc.). As an example, particulatematter in an environment may be abrasive or otherwise damaging toequipment. As an example, matter may be soluble or insoluble in anenvironment and, for example, soluble in one environment andsubstantially insoluble in another.

Conditions in a geologic environment may be transient and/or persistent.Where equipment is placed within a geologic environment, longevity ofthe equipment can depend on characteristics of the environment and, forexample, duration of use of the equipment as well as function of theequipment. Where equipment is to endure in an environment over asubstantial period of time, uncertainty may arise in one or more factorsthat could impact integrity or expected lifetime of the equipment. As anexample, where a period of time may be of the order of decades,equipment that is intended to last for such a period of time can beconstructed with materials that may be expected to endure environmentalconditions imposed thereon, whether imposed by an environment orenvironments and/or one or more functions of the equipment itself.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a packer assembly 10 that includes one ormore packers disposed in a bore 12 of a geologic environment. In such anexample, the packer assembly may be referred to as a bore packerassembly, which may be a type of bore tool (e.g., suitable for use in abore formed in a geologic environment). In the example of FIG. 1, thepacker assembly 10 is being utilized in well testing operation (e.g.,drillstem testing). As an example, the packer assembly 10 may be ahydraulically set, retrievable packer that may be run downhole with atubing, or test string 14, and set (e.g., to form a test zone 16) byapplying hydraulic pressure via an annulus 18.

As an example, a packer assembly such as the packer assembly 10 may beplaced in different configurations such as, for example, a run-in-holeconfiguration, a set configuration, and a pull-out-of-holeconfiguration. For example, the packer assembly 10 can be placed in arun-in-hole configuration before being lowered into bore 12 on aconveyance, such as test string 14. Once the packer assembly 10 is in adesired position in the bore 12, pressure can be transmitted via fluidpresent in the annulus 18 to place the packer assembly 10 in a setconfiguration in which one or more packers of the packer assembly 10secure (e.g., anchor) themselves to a well casing 20 for isolating(e.g., sealing off) the test zone 16 across the annulus 18. In such anexample, this permits the test string 14 to move through the packerassembly 10 while maintaining a seal between the interior of the one ormore packers of the packer assembly 10 and an exterior of the teststring 14. In the example of FIG. 1, after testing is complete, anupward force may be applied to the test string 14 to place the packerassembly 10 in a pull-out-of-hole configuration to disengage the one ormore packers of the packer assembly 10 from the casing 20.

As an example, the packer assembly 10 and the test string 14 may beallowed to linearly expand and contract without implementation of one ormore slip joints. As the test string 14 is run downhole with the packerassembly 10, seals between the test string 14 and the packer assembly 10may remain protected as the packer assembly 10 is lowered into and/orretrieved from the bore 12. In the example of FIG. 1, a perforating gun22 can be operatively coupled to the packer assembly 10, for example, tocreate a perforation tunnel 7 through the casing 20 and into portions ofthe subterranean formation 8. As an example, one or more other tools maybe included with the packer assembly 10, for example, in addition to orreplacing the perforating gun 22.

As shown in the example of FIG. 1, the packer assembly 10 includes apacker in the form of an annular, resilient elastomeric seal element 24that can be utilized to form an annular seal between the exterior of thepacker assembly 10 and the interior of the casing 20 (e.g., in the setconfiguration of the packer assembly 10). In such an example, the packerassembly 10 can be configured to convert pressure exerted by fluid inthe annulus 18 into a force to anchor the packer assembly 10 with thecasing 20 and to compress the seal element 24. Such pressure may be acombination of the hydrostatic pressure of a column of fluid in theannulus 18 and, for example, pressure that is applied from the surface 5(e.g., pumped, etc.) via the annulus 18.

As an example, the packer assembly 10 can be structured to transferaxial force (e.g., hydraulic force, etc.) across the packer assembly 10,for example, to set slips 60 bypassing the intervening elastomeric sealelement 24 until the slips 60 are set (e.g., engaging the casing 20). Asan example, when compressed, the seal element 24 can expand radiallyoutward and form an annular seal with the interior of the casing 20. Asan example, the packer assembly 10 can be constructed to hold the sealelement 24 in a compressed state until the packer assembly 10 is placedin a pull-out-of-hole configuration, a configuration in which the packerassembly 10 releases compressive forces on the seal element 24 andallows the seal element 24 to assume a relaxed position.

In the example of FIG. 1, as an outer diameter of the seal element 24,in the uncompressed state, may be closely matched to an inner diameterof the casing 20, there may be a small annular clearance between theseal element 24 and the casing 20 as the packer assembly 10 is beingretrieved from or lowered into the bore 12. As an example, to circumventforces present as a result of a small annular clearance, the packerassembly 10 may permit fluid to flow through the packer assembly 10(e.g., fluid bypass) when the packer assembly 10 is being lowered intoor retrieved from the bore 12. As an example, the packer assembly 10 mayinclude one or more radial bypass ports 26 that may be located above theseal element 24.

As an example, in a run-in-hole configuration, the packer assembly 10can be constructed to establish fluid communication between one or moreradial bypass ports 28 located below the seal element 24 and one or moreof the one or more radial ports 26. As an example, in a pull-out-of-holeconfiguration, the packer assembly 10 can be constructed to establishfluid communication between one or more other radial ports 30, which maybe located below the seal element 24, and one or more of the one or moreradial ports 26. As an example, the one or more radial ports 26 abovethe seal element 24 may remain in an open state. However, when thepacker assembly 10 is set, the radial ports 30 and 28 can be in a closedstate. As an example, the packer assembly 10 can include one or moreradial ports 32 that may be used, for example, to inject a kill fluid tohalt production from a producing formation. As shown, the one or moreports 32 can be located below the seal element 24 in a lower housing 42where each port may be a part of a bypass valve.

FIG. 2 shows an example of a packer assembly 220 that includes rings 221and 223 disposed at ends of a packer 222 disposed about a tube 224, anexample of a packer assembly 240 that includes rings 241 and 243disposed at ends of a first packer 242 and rings 245 and 247 disposed atends of a second packer 246 where the first and second packers 242 and246 and the rings 241, 243, 245 and 247 are disposed about a tube 244,an example of a multistage packer string 260 that includes packers 262and 264, slips 266 and a drag block 268 and examples of components ofbore tools and elastomeric components. As shown in the examples of FIG.2, equipment that includes a tube or tubular portion can include one ormore packers. Such equipment may include one or more other portions, forexample, with slips, grips, etc.

As shown in FIG. 2, a packer can include rings, which may be, forexample, constructed at least in part from an elastomeric material. Asan example, rings can be seal rings that act to maintain seals while apacker is in an expanded state and, for example, in contact forciblywith a surface of a bore, which may be an equipment bore (e.g., a casingbore, etc.) or an earthen bore (e.g., a bore formed by a bore wall of arock formation).

FIG. 2 shows an example of an assembly 282 that includes an elastomericcomponent 283 disposed about an outer perimeter surface of a component284 of a bore tool that includes a longitudinal axis (z) where theelastomeric component 283 may be expanded and/or contracted in a radialdirection as indicated by arrows, for example, to alter an outerperimeter of the elastomeric component 283 (e.g., an outer perimetersurface), optionally at least in part via altering a length of theelastomeric component 283. In such an example, an inner perimeter of theelastomeric component 283 may remain relatively constant and, forexample, in contact with the outer perimeter surface of the component284.

FIG. 2 shows an example of an assembly 286 that includes an elastomericcomponent 287 disposed about an inner perimeter surface of a component288 of a bore tool that includes a longitudinal axis (z) where theelastomeric component 287 may be expanded and/or contracted in a radialdirection as indicated by arrows, for example, to alter an innerperimeter of the elastomeric component 287 (e.g., an inner perimetersurface), optionally at least in part via altering a length of theelastomeric component 287. In such an example, an outer perimeter of theelastomeric component 287 may remain relatively constant and, forexample, in contact with the inner perimeter surface of the component288.

FIG. 2 shows an example of an assembly 292 that includes an elastomericcomponent 293 disposed about an outer perimeter surface of a component294 of a bore tool that includes a longitudinal axis (z) where theelastomeric component 293 may be expanded and/or contracted in a radialdirection as indicated by arrows, for example, to alter an outerperimeter of the elastomeric component 293 (e.g., an outer perimetersurface), optionally at least in part via altering a length of theelastomeric component 293. In such an example, an inner perimeter of theelastomeric component 293 may remain relatively constant and, forexample, in contact with the outer perimeter surface of the component294.

FIG. 2 shows an example of an assembly 296 that includes an elastomericcomponent 297 disposed about an inner perimeter surface of a component298 of a bore tool that includes a longitudinal axis (z) where theelastomeric component 297 may be expanded and/or contracted in a radialdirection as indicated by arrows, for example, to alter an innerperimeter of the elastomeric component 297 (e.g., an inner perimetersurface), optionally at least in part via altering a length of theelastomeric component 297. In such an example, an outer perimeter of theelastomeric component 297 may remain relatively constant and, forexample, in contact with the inner perimeter surface of the component298.

As an example, a bore tool can include a component that includes alongitudinal axis and a perimeter surface disposed at one or more radiifrom the longitudinal axis; and an elastomeric component disposed aboutthe perimeter surface where the elastomeric component includes anelastomeric material that includes, for example, carbon-basednanoplatelets. In such an example, the perimeter surface of thecomponent of the bore tool may be an outer perimeter surface or an innerperimeter surface. As an example, as to one or more radii, consider asubstantially cylindrical component that includes an outer perimeterdisposed at a substantially constant radius with respect to azimuthalangle about a longitudinal axis and/or an inner perimeter disposed at asubstantially constant radius with respect to azimuthal angle about alongitudinal axis (see, e.g., the assemblies 282 and 286); or, forexample, a component that may include an outer perimeter defined by morethan one radius and/or an inner perimeter defined by more than oneradius (see, e.g., the assemblies 292 and 296).

A method can include forming an elastomeric component that includescarbon-based nanoplatelets in an elastomeric matrix; fitting theelastomeric component about a perimeter surface of a tool that includesa longitudinal axis; and tripping the tool into a bore in a geologicformation. In such an example, the perimeter surface of the tool may bean inner perimeter surface or an outer perimeter surface. As an example,such a tool may be a bore tool as it is suitable for tripping into abore in a geologic formation (e.g., geologic environment).

As an example, a bore packer assembly can include a first endelastomeric element; an intermediate elastomeric element; and a secondend elastomeric element where at least one of the elastomeric elementsincludes carbon-based nanoparticles. In such an example, the bore packerassembly can include an outer perimeter surface where the elastomericelements are disposed about the outer perimeter surface. As an example,one or more mechanisms may apply force to the elastomeric elements suchthat outer perimeters of the elastomeric elements change, for example,become greater or lesser depending on the direction of the force. As anexample, where force acts to decrease the length of the elastomericelements, the outer perimeters of the elastomeric elements can increaseradially outwardly; whereas, where force acts to increase the length ofthe elastomeric elements, the outer perimeters of the elastomericelements can decrease radially inwardly.

FIG. 3 shows a cutaway view of a sealing element mechanism 368 of apacker 310. In the example of FIG. 3, the sealing element mechanism 368includes an assembly 382 (e.g., a sliding shoe assembly) that includes aseal element 324, a sliding shoe (e.g., a sleeve) 374, a sliding shoegage ring 376, a sliding shoe shear member (e.g., a pin) 378, and asliding shoe seal member 380.

As shown in the example of FIG. 3, the seal element 324 can be a doublefold back element stack, which can include a plurality of elastomeric(e.g., rubber) packer elements (e.g., elastomeric components). The sealelement 324 can be connected to and can be moveable with the slidingshoe 374, which can include a head portion 384 and an elongated shelf386. As shown in the example of FIG. 3, the sliding shoe 374substantially circumscribes a packer mandrel 344.

In the example of FIG. 3, the seal element 324 can be operationallyconnected with shelf 386. As an example, a head portion 384 of thesliding shoe 374 can be oriented toward slips, for example, when thesliding shoe 374 is disposed on the mandrel 344. As shown, a gage ring376 can be connected with the sliding shoe 374 via a shear member 378and the gage ring 376 can be connected to shelf 386 of shoe 374 distalfrom the head portion 384, where the seal element 324 is disposed atleast in part axially between the gage ring 376 and head portion 384 ofthe shoe 374. As an example, the assembled sliding shoe assembly 382 maybe positioned on the packer mandrel 344. The sliding shoe assembly 382can be operatively coupled to the ratchet mechanism 346 and a middlehousing 340 (e.g., a pickup housing). In the example of FIG. 3, the headportion 384 of the sliding shoe 374 forms a box end which is threadedlycoupled to the middle housing 340. As an example, an upper ratchetmandrel 388 may be threadedly coupled to a pin end of the packer mandrel344 and, for example, an outer ratchet portion 390 may be disposed withan upper ratchet mandrel 388 (e.g., operatively coupled via threading tothe gage ring 376).

As an example, a mechanism such as a sliding shoe assembly (see, e.g.,the sliding shoe assembly 382) can provide for transferring axial force(see, e.g., “F” and arrows) from a setting mechanism (see, e.g., thesetting mechanism 366) to slips around (e.g., bypassing, the sealelement 324) a packer to set (e.g., actuate) the slips and, for example,anchor an assembly to casing and, for example, to then facilitateapplication of axial force to packer(s) (see, e.g., the seal elements324) to compress and set the packer(s). As an example, axial forcetransfer across a setting mechanism (e.g., a housing) bypassing a packercan facilitate setting slips through a packer, for example, withoutsetting or prematurely setting the packer until after the slip is set(e.g., delaying the setting of the seal element). Such a mechanism offorce transfer can reduce loss of energy in axial force that occurs whenacting through one or more packers (e.g., elastomeric components) andthereby facilitate achieving a setting force as desired at slips andminimizing an amount of actuating force at a setting mechanism and/or ata wellbore annulus.

FIG. 4 shows various examples of some types of packers, including a onepiece packer 410, a fold back shoe packer 420, a dual fold back shoepacker 430, an ECNER array packer 440, a garter spring packer 450, agarter spring with wire mesh packer 460, a three piece packer 470, asoft set array packer 480 and an expandable ring packer 490. As anexample, a packer can include an elastomeric material or elastomericmaterials. As an example, a packer can include one or more metalliccomponents (e.g., metal or alloy). As an example, a packer can includeone or more rings, which may include a metal ring and/or an alloy ring.As an example, a packer can include a mesh or meshes, which may includea metal mesh and/or an alloy mesh. As an example, a packer can includeone or more springs, which may include a metal spring and/or an alloyspring. As an example, a ring, a mesh, a spring, etc. may be ananti-extrusion component.

As mentioned, an elastomeric material can include reinforcing material,which may be a particulate material. As an example, an elastomericmaterial can include a carbon-based reinforcing material. As an example,an elastomeric material can include graphene and/or graphene oxide wheresuch graphene and/or graphene oxide acts to reinforce one or moreelastomers of the elastomeric material. As an example, graphene can be areinforcing material. As an example, graphene oxide can be a reinforcingmaterial.

FIG. 5 shows examples of structures 501. While graphite is athree-dimensional carbon-based material made of layers of graphene,graphite oxide differs. By oxidation of graphite using one or moreoxidizing agents (e.g., sulfuric acid, sodium nitrate, potassiumpermanganate, etc.), oxygenated functionalities can be introduced in agraphite structure (e.g., hydroxyl, epoxide, etc.) that can expand layerseparation and impart hydrophilicity. The imparted hydrophilicity canallow for exfoliation of graphite oxide in water (e.g., via sonicationassist, etc.) to produce single or few layer graphene, which may bereferred to as graphene oxide (GO); noting that one or more othertechniques for exfoliation may be implemented, additionally oralternatively (e.g., other mechanical, chemical, thermal, etc.). Thus, adifference between graphite oxide and graphene oxide can be the numberof layers. For example, a dispersion of graphene oxide may includestructures of a few layers or less (e.g., flakes and monolayer flakes);whereas, structures of graphite oxide include more layers. As anexample, graphene oxide (GO) may be reduced to form reduced grapheneoxide (rGO). As an example, graphene oxide may include surface charge,which may be negative (e.g., consider presence of oxygen), depend onfactors such as pH, etc.

As an example, a material may include graphene and a metal oxide boundvia hydrogen bonds to the graphene. As an example, a material mayinclude graphene and one or more polymers that may be capable of forminghydrogen bonds and/or other bonds to the graphene. As an example, amaterial may include graphene, oxide(s) and one or more polymers. As anexample, a material may include graphene as graphene oxide (GO).

In FIG. 5, the structures 501 include graphene where, for example,carbon atoms may be arranged in a hexagonal manner, due to sp² bonding,as a crystalline allotrope of carbon (e.g., as a large aromaticmolecule). Graphene may be described as being a one-atom thick layer ofgraphite and may be a basic structural element of carbon allotropes suchas, for example, graphite, charcoal, carbon nanotubes and fullerenes.

As an example, a nanosheet (e.g., or nanoplatelet) may be defined asincluding a two-dimensional nanostructure that may be characterized inpart by a thickness between a lower surface and an upper surface of thenanostructure where the thickness is less than about 100 nanometers. Asan example, a graphene nanosheet may include a thickness of the order ofabout 0.34 nm (e.g., consider a single layer of carbon atoms withhexagonal lattices). As mentioned, a nanosheet may be defined in part byan aspect ratio. As an example, a graphene nanosheet may include anaspect ratio of about 100 or more. As an example, graphene nanosheetsthat include, on average, an aspect ratio of the order of about 100 ormore (e.g., optionally of about 1000 or more) may be used to form one ormore types of composite materials. As an example, a larger dimension ofa graphene nanosheet (e.g., that may define in part an aspect ratio) maybe, for example, of the order of about 100 nanometers or more. As anexample, a larger dimension of a graphene nanosheet (e.g., that maydefine in part an aspect ratio) may be, for example, of the order ofabout 1 micron or more. As an example, a larger dimension of a graphenenanosheet (e.g., that may define in part an aspect ratio) may be, forexample, of the order of about 10 microns or more. As an example,graphene nanosheets may be made and/or provided in a range of dimensionsand/or aspect ratios.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, the structures 501 may include a layer ofgraphene or layers of graphene, which may be described, for example,with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system (x, y, z). As an example,a layer may be bonded to another layer, for example, via interactionsthat may involve epoxide and hydroxyl groups. As an example, one or morelayers may include one or more of epoxide, carbonyl (C═O), hydroxyl(—OH), and phenol groups, which may optionally participate in bondformation. For example, see an approximate representation of a singlegraphene sheet in the structures 501, which includes various oxygengroups (e.g., a GO sheet).

As an example, layers of graphene may be bonded via one or more metaloxides and hydrogen, for example, magnesium oxide may bind to graphenevia hydrogen atoms; and/or layers of graphene may be bonded via one ormore polymers and hydrogen (e.g., and/or other group).

As an example, a material may exhibit one or more regions that deviatefrom planarity (e.g., a buckling like structure). As an example, amaterial may include disorder and/or irregular packing of layers.

FIG. 6 shows examples of structures 601 and 603. As an example, astructure can be a graphene or a graphene-based structure. As anexample, a structure can include a 2-dimensional hexagonal lattice ofcarbon sp² hybridized carbon atoms. As an example, a structure can be a“ball” (e.g., 3D structure) such as, for example, a C-60 “bucky ball”.As an example, a structure can be a nanotube. As an example, a structurecan be graphite. As shown, the structure 603 is plate-like and may bereferred to as a nanoplate or nanoplatelet where a plurality may bereferred to as nanoplatelets. As an example, nanoplatelets can includeoxygen and/or nitrogen atoms. As an example, one or more functionalgroups may be bonded to a nanoplatelet.

FIG. 7 shows an example of a method 710 that includes providinggraphite, oxidizing 730 at least a portion of the graphite 720 to formgraphite oxide 740 and sonicating 750 at least a portion of the graphiteoxide 740 to form graphene oxide (GO) 760.

As an example, a polymeric material may be an EPDM (e.g.,Ethylene-Propylene-Diene-Monomer rubber), for example, manufactured fromethylidenenorbornene (ENB), which is a bicyclic monomer and intermediatethat includes two double bonds, each with a different reactivity. ENBcan be a diene monomer in the manufacture of EPDM(Ethylene-Propylene-Diene-Monomer) rubber.

FIG. 8 shows an example of a method 810 that includes reacting ENB-EPDMwith maleic anhydride (MAH) to graft the MAH onto the ENB-EPDM. Asshown, various functional groups of the MAH can hydrogen bond withvarious groups of graphene oxide. The method 810 of FIG. 8 is providedas an example of a modification that can be utilized to bond a polymericmaterial to a carbon-based material such as, for example, grapheneoxide.

As mentioned, graphene is a layered material that, for example, can beprovided with a relatively high aspect ratio in an exfoliated state.Graphene tends to be strong on a per unit weight basis. Grapheneincludes functional properties in that it may be bonded to one or moreother chemicals.

As an example, graphene nanoplatelets (e.g., nano-graphite) can be oflesser cost than carbon-based nanotubes (CNTs). As an example, graphenecan provide gas impermeable characteristic and may improve rapid gasdecompression resistance characteristics.

As an example, an elastomeric material can include graphene and can beformed as an elastomeric component (e.g., elastomeric element) as partof one or more types of downhole tools (e.g., packer assemblies, etc.).

As an example, graphene nanoplatelets may be dispersed in a mixture ofmonomers and/or polymers. For example, consider polypropylene (PP) wherechains can adhere to a graphene basal plane. As an example, functionalgroups on edges of graphene nanoplatelets may be considered. As anexample, graphene nanoplatelets can include, for example, thenanoplatelets xGnP™ (XG Sciences, Lansing, Mich.).

As an example, particle size of graphene nanoplatelets can becharacterized by a diameter as a dimension (e.g., an effectivediameter), which may be, for example, in a range of about 1 micron toabout 25 microns, and include surface characteristics in a range ofabout 120 m²/g to about 750 m²/g. In such examples, a nanoplatelet maybe characterized in a thickness or depth dimension. For example,consider nanoplatelets with an average thickness of approximately 2nanometers.

As an example, graphene nanoplatelets may be utilized with polyethylene(PE), for example, to form one or more types of multifunctional highdensity polyethylene nanocomposites. Such an approach can includeincorporation of exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets.

As an example, a linear low density PE based elastomeric material can beformed via paraffin coating on exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets.

As an example, as to Nylon 6, one or more types of surfactants may beincluded in a mixture to enhance compatibility with graphenenanoplatelets as the surface energy level of Nylon 6 tends to be similarto that of the aforementioned xGnP™ nanoplatelets (e.g., consider polarcontribution due the amide groups of Nylon 6).

As an example, an elastomeric material can include polycarbonate (PC)and graphene (e.g., consider polyurethane elastomers types polymers thatmay include polycarbonate diols, etc.).

As an example, an epoxy can include graphene. As an example, such anepoxy may be utilized with one or more other types of materials (e.g.,elastomeric materials that may include one or more types of carbon-basednanoparticles, etc.).

As an example, a material can include reduced graphene oxide and naturalrubber to form a nanocomposite material. In such an example, a methodcan include dispersion of reduced graphene oxide (RG-O) into naturalrubber (NR), which can enhance mechanical, electrical, and thermalproperties of the natural rubber (NR).

As an example, a method can include modification of graphene andfabrication of graphene-based polymer nanocomposites.

As an example, functionalized graphene sheets (FGSs) can be utilized asa reinforcement material in an elastomeric material. In such an example,the FGSs can be predominantly single sheets of graphene with a lateralsize of several hundreds of nanometers and a thickness of about 1.5 nm.

As an example, graphite nanoplatelets of expanded graphite can beutilized to form one or more types of polymer composites. As an example,graphite may be expanded from intercalated graphite by microwaves orradiofrequency waves in the presence of a gaseous atmosphere. Suchpolymer composites can exhibit barrier and/or conductive properties dueto the presence of expanded graphite.

As an example, an elastomeric material can include one or more lubricantadditives. For example, consider a lubricant additive in at leastdynamic seal surface portion of an elastomeric material that can reducethe coefficient of friction and stick-slip amplitude at the surface.

As an example, a rubber composite material can include graphene oxide.For example, consider materials in parts by weight of: 100 parts ofchlorosulfonated polyethylene, 10-15 parts of ethylene-vinyl acetaterubber (EVM), 20-25 parts of hydrogenated butadiene-acrylonitrile rubber(HNBR), 0.5-5 parts of graphene oxide, 30-70 parts of hard carbon blackwith mean grain size of 15-25 nm, 1-10 parts of dioctyl sebacate (DOS),3-6 parts of zinc oxide, 3-6 parts of stearic acid, 0.5-4 parts ofN,N-nickel dibutyl dithiocarbamate, 1-4 parts of dipentamethylenethiuramhexasulfide, 0.5-4 parts of PbO and 1-6 parts of insoluble sulfur. Sucha rubber composite can, via chlorosulfonated polyethylene, EVM and HNBRwith low acrylonitrile content, balance fuel oil resistance and lowtemperature resistance.

As an example, a method can include forming a graphene reinforcedelastomer composite material for one or more applications such as, forexample, downhole seal, packer for downhole use, a blowout protector(BOP), etc. As an example, an elastomeric material can be or includeswellable elastomer, which may exhibit high temperature and/or sour gasresistance. As an example, consider EPDM as an oil swellable elastomericmaterial.

As an example, one or more types of nano-scale reinforcement materialcan be used to enhance rheological, mechanical and/or physicalproperties of one or more types of polymers. As an example, a nano-scalematerial may improve processability, functionality and/or end-useperformance of an elastomeric material. As an example, graphite (e.g.,graphene nanoplatelets) can be utilized as reinforcement whererelatively large specific surface area, high strength and high surfacereactivity can be beneficial to modify properties of one or more typesof elastomers.

As an example, graphite (e.g., graphene nanoplatelets) can be used as asingle-reinforcement filler or alternatively with one or more otherfiller materials such as, for example, silica, carbon black, etc.

As to types of polymers, a polymeric material can include, for example,one or more types of carboxylated nitrile rubber compounds (XNBR), whichmay provide better strength properties, especially abrasion resistance,when compared to NBR (e.g., without carboxylation). As an example,carboxylated nitriles may be produced by inclusion of carboxylic acidgroups (e.g., as polymer groups during polymerization). In such anexample, carboxylic acid groups can provide extra crosslinks (e.g.,pseudo or ionic crosslinks) and thereby produce harder, toughercompounds with higher abrasion resistance, modulus, and tensile strengththan standard nitriles.

As an example, a polymeric material can include, for example, one ormore types of HNBR. HNBR can include so-called highly saturatedhydrocarbons and acrylonitrile (ACN) where, for example, increasedsaturation is achieved via hydrogenation of unsaturated bonds. As anexample, increased saturation can impart (e.g., improve) heat, chemical,and ozone resistance. As an example, ACN content of HNBR can imparttoughness, as well as resistance to hydrocarbons. Where unsaturatedbutadiene segments exist (e.g., less than about 10 percent), such sitesmay facilitate peroxide curing and/or vulcanization. As an example, aperoxide-cured HNBR may exhibit improved thermal properties withoutfurther vulcanization (e.g., as with sulfur-cured nitriles).

As an example, a polymeric material can include, for example, one ormore types of fluoroelastomers, which may be abbreviated as FKMs. FKM(FPM by ISO) is a designation for about 80 percent of fluoroelastomersas defined in ASTM D1418. FKMs may exhibit heat and fluid resistance.For example, in FKMs, bonds between carbon atoms of the polymer backboneand attached (pendant) fluorine atoms tend to be resistant to chainscission and relatively high fluorine-to-hydrogen ratios can providestability (e.g., reduced risk of reactions or environmental breakdown).Further, FKMs tend to include a carbon backbone that is saturated (e.g.,lacking covalent double bonds, which may be attack sites). Elastomerssuch as one or more of the VITON™ class of FKM elastomers (E. I. du Pontde Nemours & Co., Wilmington, Del.) may be used (e.g., VITON™ A, VITON™B, VITON™ F, VITON™ GF, VITON™ GLT, VITON™ GFLT, etc.).

On the basis of their chemical composition various FKMs may be dividedinto the following types: Type 1 FKMs are composed of vinylidenefluoride (VDF) and hexafluoropropylene (HFP); Type 2 FKMs are composedof VDF, HFP, and tetrafluoroethylene (TFE); Type 3 FKMs are composed ofVDF, HFP, TFE, perfluoromethylvinylether (PMVE); Type 4 FKMs arecomposed of propylene, TFE, and VDF; Type 5 FKMs are composed of VDF,HFP, TFE, PMVE, and ethylene. Other categories of polymers can includeFFKM and FEPM.

As an example, a polymeric material can include, for example, one ormore types of a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), which may be arelatively non-reactive and thermoplastic fluoropolymer produced atleast in part by polymerization of vinylidene difluoride. As an example,a PVDF may be melt processed, for example, depending on melting point(e.g., due to modifiers, fillers, etc.). As an example, a PVDF may havea density of about 1.78. As an example, a material may include aco-polymer of PVDF and HFP (e.g., poly(vinylidenefluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene), which may be abbreviated as PVDF-HFP).

FIG. 9 shows an example of a plot 900 for elastomeric materials thatinclude graphite (e.g., graphene nanoplatelets) as reinforcing filler.The plot 900 shows data as to storage modulus as well as thermalresistance of an HNBR elastomer. The data in the plot 900 indicateenhancement of modulus at temperatures in a range of about 150 degreesC. to about 200 degrees C. when compared to carbon black filled HNBR.The plot 900 also shows graphite (e.g., graphene nanoplatelets) filledFKM as having the highest thermal stability, up to about 300 degrees C.As shown for various example elastomeric materials corresponding to datain the plot 900, enhancements to properties can be achieved at fillerconcentrations at less than approximately 10 percent by weight.

FIG. 10 shows an example of a plot 1000 as to property comparisons witha control (HNBR-carbon black) and two graphene nanoplatelets reinforcedHNBRs. For G1 compounds, the data indicate an enhancement of modulus atabout 50 percent and at about 100 percent and a slight increase inelongation at break and with a relatively similar level of tearstrength.

TABLE 1 Data of Plot 1000 Tear Storage Modulus Modulus ElongationStrength Modulus Material 50% (psi) 100% (psi) (percent) (lb/in) (300C., psi) Control 416 800 351 182 860 G1 817 1312 443 193 1465 G2 6891041 512 190 1401

FIG. 11 shows an example of a plot 1100 that includes data for gaspermeability as to the control, G1 and G2. As shown in the plot 1100,CO₂ permeability is less in G1 and G2 polymeric materials than in thecontrol polymeric material.

As demonstrated via the example polymeric materials (e.g., elastomericmaterials), inclusion of carbon-based nanoparticles such as, forexample, graphene nanoplatelets, can reinforce a polymeric matrix. Forexample, such reinforcement can enhance mechanical properties,particularly at temperatures of interest for various applications, and,for example, can decrease permeability as to gas. As to the latter,decreased gas permeability can be characterized as a gas barrierproperty. As an example, a polymeric material that includes one or moretypes of carbon-based nanoparticles (e.g., graphene nanoplatelets, etc.)can exhibit decreased permeability as to one or more gasses, which canbe beneficial for one or more types of downhole applications.

As an example, a method can include mixing graphite (e.g., graphenenanoplatelets) with one or more types of polymers such as, for example,one or more of HNBR, NBR, VITON™ polymer, VITON™ Extreme polymer, AFLAS™fluororubber, FFKM rubber, etc. where the graphite can be dispersedwithin a matrix formed by the one or more types of polymers. As anexample, a component made at least in part from such a resultingpolymeric material may be suitable for one or more types of downholeseal applications such as, for example, as a portion of a packerassembly (e.g., a packer or seal element). As an example, equipment thatincludes a packer may itself be referred to as a “packer” (see, e.g.,the multistage packer 260 of FIG. 2). As an example, equipment such as ablowout protector (BOP), etc., may include one or more types ofpolymeric materials that include one or more forms of carbon-basedmaterial (e.g., carbon ring based materials such as, for example,graphite, etc.).

As an example, a method can include dispersing graphite (e.g., graphenenanoplatelets) in an elastomeric fluid in a manner that acts to reduceaggregation of the graphite (e.g., nanoparticles) in the elastomericfluid.

As an example, nano-scale graphite can be dispersed in a dry form ofadditives to provide a nanoparticle pre-blend and then mixed with baseelastomer such as, for example, one or more of HNBR, FKM, AFLAS™fluororubber (FEPM), and FFKM, to form a relatively homogenous elastomercomposite.

As an example, nano-scale graphite can be dispersed in a liquid formpolymer such as, for example, liquid NBR to provide a nanoparticlepre-blended “master” batch that can be mixed with a base resin such as,for example, one or more of HNBR, FKM to form a relatively homogenouselastomer composite material.

As an example, graphene nanoplatelets can be surface treated bycarboxy-terminated butadiene-acroylonitrile (CTBN) to promotedispersion. As an example, CTBN can be used for modification of surfaceof carbon materials including carbon nanotubes.

As an example, carboxyl-modified multi-walled carbon nanotubes(MWCNT-COOHs) (e.g., suitable for use as nano-scale particles) can beincorporated into diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) toughened withcarboxyl-terminated butadiene-acrylonitrile (CTBN). As an example,addition of MWCNT-COOHs can accelerate curing reaction of arubber-toughened epoxy resin (e.g., as may be shown via differentialscanning calorimetry). As an example, Tg of rubber-toughened epoxynanocomposites may be lowered with inclusion of MWCNT-COOH. As anexample, tensile strength, elongation at break, flexural strength andflexural modulus of DGEBA/CTBN/MWCNT-COOHs nanocomposites can beincreased in relationship to MWCNT-COOH concentration. As an example, arelatively homogenous dispersion of nanocomposites can be achieved viause of MWCNT-COOH.

FIG. 12 shows an example of a method 1210 of modifying carbon nanotubes(CNTs) via carboxyl groups. In particular, FIG. 12 shows the method 1210as including a reaction scheme between carboxyl groups in CTBN andMWCNT-COOHs and epoxy groups in DGEBA.

As an example, one or more types of graphene reinforced elastomericmaterials can exhibit relatively high temperature resistant and/or gasresistance. Such materials may be suitable for one or more types ofdownhole oilfield applications.

As an example, an application may be a seal application where one ormore seal elements are made at least in part from a graphene reinforcedelastomer. As an example, consider an HNBR-based elastomeric materialfor drilling mud motor for better solvent resistance and fatigue. As anexample, consider a swellable elastomeric material for one or more typesof downhole applications that can include use of a packer or packers. Asan example, an elastomeric material can be utilized in a surface BOPpacker assembly as a seal element.

FIG. 12 shows an example of a system 1300 that includes a casing 1302(e.g., a tube or tubular) and equipment 1310 disposed at least in partin a bore of the casing 1302. As shown, the equipment 1310 includescomponents 1320 and 1330 that define axial limits (e.g., axial stopsurfaces) between which exist a packer 1360 that can include portionssuch as portions 1362, 1364 and 1366. As an example, one or more of thecomponents 1320 and 1330 can move axially to apply force to the packer1360. In such an example, the packer 1360 may expand at least in partradially such that the packer 1360 contacts an inner surface of thecasing 1302. In such an example, as indicated by pressures P1 and P2, apressure differential may be developed where the packer 1360 forms aseal between, for example, the component 1320 and the inner surface ofthe casing 1302.

With reference to the portions 1362, 1364 and 1366 of the packer 1360,these may be made of the same elastomeric material or made of one ormore different types of elastomeric materials. As an example, suchmaterials may be formed via a compression modeling process.

As an example, one or more elastomeric materials may be selected atleast in part based on friction coefficient. As an example, one or moreelastomeric materials may be bonded with one or more components, whichcan include, for example, one or more metal, alloy, ceramic and/or hardplastic materials.

As an example, a packer may be utilized to seal a tool or tubing withrespect to another tool or tubing. As an example, a packer shaped as aring or other annular shape may include an outer diameter that is in arange of about 5 cm to about 50 cm. As an example, a packer can beshaped as a ring or other type of annular shape may include an innerdiameter that is sized to fit about an outer surface of a tool ortubing. As an example, an inner diameter may be in a range of about 0.5cm to about 49.5 cm.

FIG. 14 shows some examples of arrangements of packers 1410, 1420, 1430,1440, 1450, 1460, 1470 and 1480.

As an example, for the packer 1410, portions 1412 and 1416 can be madeof 90/95 duro elastomeric graphene filled material with a temperaturerating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about 400 degrees F.) and aportion 1414 may be made of 70/75 duro elastomeric graphene filledmaterial with a temperature rating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about400 degrees F.).

As an example, for the packer 1420, portions 1422 and 1426 can be madeof 90/95 duro elastomeric graphene filled material with a temperaturerating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about 400 degrees F.) and aportion 1424 may be made of 70/75 duro elastomeric graphene filledmaterial with a temperature rating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about400 degrees F.).

As an example, for the packer 1430, portions 1432 and 1436 can be madeof 90/95 duro elastomeric graphene filled material with a temperaturerating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about 400 degrees F.) and aportion 1434 may be made of 70/75 duro elastomeric graphene filledmaterial with a temperature rating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about400 degrees F.). As shown, the packer 1430 can include one or moreanti-extrusion components 1437 and 1439 such as, for example, one ormore anti-extrusion meshes, springs, etc. In such an example, one ormore of the one or more anti-extrusion components 1437 and 1439 may bebonded to the elastomeric material of a portion or portions of thepacker 1430.

As an example, for the packer 1440, portions 1442 and 1446 can be madeof 90/95 duro elastomeric graphene filled material with a temperaturerating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about 400 degrees F.) and aportion 1444 may be made of 70/75 duro elastomeric graphene filledmaterial with a temperature rating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about400 degrees F.). As shown, the packer 1440 can include one or moreanti-extrusion components 1447 and 1449 such as, for example, one ormore anti-extrusion meshes, springs, etc. In such an example, one ormore of the one or more anti-extrusion components 1447 and 1449 may bebonded to the elastomeric material of a portion or portions of thepacker 1440.

As an example, for the packer 1450, portions 1452 and 1456 can be madeof 90/95 duro elastomeric graphene filled material with a temperaturerating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about 400 degrees F.) and aportion 1454 may be made of 80/85 duro elastomeric graphene filledmaterial with a temperature rating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about400 degrees F.).

As an example, for the packer 1460, portions 1462 and 1466 can be madeof 90/95 duro elastomeric graphene filled material with a temperaturerating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about 400 degrees F.) and aportion 1464 may be made of 80/85 duro elastomeric graphene filledmaterial with a temperature rating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about400 degrees F.).

As an example, for the packer 1470, portions 1472 and 1476 can be madeof 90/95 duro elastomeric graphene filled material with a temperaturerating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about 400 degrees F.) and aportion 1474 may be made of 80/85 duro elastomeric graphene filledmaterial with a temperature rating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about400 degrees F.). As shown, the packer 1470 can include one or moreanti-extrusion components 1477 and 1479 such as, for example, one ormore anti-extrusion meshes, springs, etc. In such an example, one ormore of the one or more anti-extrusion components 1477 and 1479 may bebonded to the elastomeric material of a portion or portions of thepacker 1470.

As an example, for the packer 1480, portions 1482 and 1486 can be madeof 90/95 duro elastomeric graphene filled material with a temperaturerating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about 400 degrees F.) and aportion 1484 may be made of 80/85 duro elastomeric graphene filledmaterial with a temperature rating to about 200 degrees C. (e.g., about400 degrees F.). As shown, the packer 1480 can include one or moreanti-extrusion components 1487 and 1489 such as, for example, one ormore anti-extrusion meshes, springs, etc. In such an example, one ormore of the one or more anti-extrusion components 1487 and 1489 may bebonded to the elastomeric material of a portion or portions of thepacker 1480.

FIG. 15 shows an example of a method 1500 that shows stress profiles fora packer 1510 that includes three portions 1512, 1514 and 1516 withrespect to time during a setting operation where the packer 1510 isdisposed between two surfaces. As an example, the method 1500 can be asingle step setting for the packer 1510; noting that, for example, amethod may include a shear-slip setting for a packer.

As shown in FIG. 15, a location of maximum stress can change during asetting process where, for example, it may be located at a boundarybetween portions 1514 and 1516, then within the portion 1514, then at aboundary with a component that acts to retain the portion 1512, etc.

As an example, a middle portion of a packer (e.g., a middle element) maydeform more than an end portion of a packer (e.g., an end element). Asan example, where a packer includes multiple elements, the materials ofconstruction of the elements may be selected based at least in part onevolution of shapes, stresses, etc., with respect to time. For example,as explained with respect to various examples of FIG. 14, a material ofconstruction of an end portion (e.g., end element) may differ from amaterial of construction of a portion that is not at an end (e.g., anintermediate element).

As an example, a geologic environment or downhole environment may be aharsh environment and/or an environment that may be classified as beinga high-pressure and high-temperature environment (e.g., a HPHTenvironment). As an example, an environment may be classified based atleast in part on its chemical composition. For example, where anenvironment includes hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), carbon dioxide (CO₂), etc.,the environment may be corrosive to certain materials. As an example, anenvironment may be classified based at least in part on particulatematter that may be in a fluid (e.g., suspended, entrained, etc.). As anexample, particulate matter in an environment may be abrasive orotherwise damaging to equipment. As an example, conditions in a geologicenvironment may be transient and/or persistent.

As an example, an elastomeric material or elastomeric materials may bemade and/or selected based at least in part on conditions in anenvironment in which the material or materials are to be used. As anexample, an elastomeric material or elastomeric materials may be madeand/or selected based at least in part on one or more operationalconditions of equipment in an environment. As an example, an elastomericmaterial or elastomeric materials may be made and/or selected based atleast in part on conditions in an environment in which the material ormaterials are to be used and/or one or more operational conditions ofequipment in an environment.

FIG. 16 shows an example of a method 1600 that includes a formationblock 1610 for forming an elastomeric component that includescarbon-based nanoplatelets in an elastomeric matrix; a fitting block1620 for fitting the elastomeric component about a perimeter surface ofa tool that includes a longitudinal axis; and a tripping block 1630 fortripping the tool into a bore in a geologic formation. In such anexample, the carbon-based nanoplatelets can include one or more types ofchemically modified carbon-based nanoplatelets. As an example, themethod 1600 may include a compression block 1640 for compressing theelastomeric component to expand an outer perimeter of the elastomericcomponent (e.g., to form a seal with respect to a wall in the geologicenvironment such as an earthen wall, a casing wall, etc.). As anexample, the method 1600 can include fitting an elastomeric componentabout an inner perimeter surface or an outer perimeter surface of a tool(e.g., a component of a tool). In such examples, compression maycompress the elastomeric component to decrease its inner perimeter or toincrease its outer perimeter, respectively.

FIG. 17 shows an example of a geologic environment 1700 and a system1710 positioned with respect to the geologic environment 1700. As shown,the geologic environment 1700 may include at least one bore 1702, whichmay include casing 1704 and well head equipment 1706 (e.g., blowoutprotector, etc.), which may include a sealable fitting 1708 that mayform a seal about a cable 1720. In the example of FIG. 17, the system1710 may include a reel 1712 for deploying equipment 1725 via the cable1720. As an example, the equipment 1725 may be a tool (e.g., a downholetool). As an example, the system 1710 may include a structure 1740 thatmay carry a mechanism such as a gooseneck 1745 that may function totransition the cable 1720 from the reel 1712 to a downward direction forpositioning in the bore 1702.

As shown in the example of FIG. 17, a unit 1760 may include circuitrythat may be electrically coupled to the equipment 1725. As an example,the cable 1720 may include or carry one or more wires and/or othercommunication equipment (e.g., fiber optics, rely circuitry, wirelesscircuitry, etc.) that may be operatively coupled to the equipment 1725.As an example, the unit 1760 may process information transmitted by oneor more sensors, for example, as operatively coupled to or as part ofthe equipment 1725. As an example, the unit 1760 may include one or morecontrollers for controlling, for example, operation of one or morecomponents of the system 1710 (e.g., the reel 1712, etc.). As anexample, the unit 1760 may include circuitry to control depth/distanceof deployment of the equipment 1725.

As an example, the system 1710 may include one or more stuffing boxes,one or more lubricator, one or more blow-out protectors, etc. As anexample, the system 1710 can include one or more downhole pieces ofequipment such as, for example, one or more downhole valve units 1770,one or more control line associated with one or more units, one or morepacker assemblies 1780, etc. As an example, one or more pieces ofequipment, tools, etc. in the system 1710 may include an elastomericmaterial that includes carbon-based (carbon ring-based) nanoparticlessuch as, for example, nanoplatelets.

As an example, the system 1710 may be utilized to trip equipment in toand out of the bore 1702. As an example, a system may be or include arig. As an example, the system 1710, a rig, etc., may be utilized tomove and position one or more types of tools in a bore. As an example, amethod can include tripping in and/or tripping out equipment withrespect to a bore.

As an example, the system 1710 may include one or more stuffing boxes,one or more lubricator, one or more blow-out protectors, etc. As anexample, the system 1710 can include one or more downhole pieces ofequipment such as, for example, one or more downhole valve units, one ormore control line associated with one or more units, one or more packerassemblies, etc.

As an example, a bore tool can include a component that includes alongitudinal axis and a perimeter surface disposed at one or more radiifrom the longitudinal axis; and an elastomeric component disposed aboutthe perimeter surface where the elastomeric component includes anelastomeric material that includes carbon-based nanoplatelets. In suchan example, the bore tool can be or include a bore packer assembly. Asan example, such a bore packer assembly can include a force applicatorthat is actuatable to apply force to the elastomeric component to atleast in part increase a perimeter of the elastomeric component.

As an example, a bore tool can include slips. As an example, a bore toolcan be or include a blowout protector (BOP).

As an example, a bore tool can include two elastomeric components wherean axial gap exists between the two elastomeric components and where atleast one of the two elastomeric components includes carbon-basednanoplatelets.

As an example, a bore tool can include two elastomeric components thatcontact each other where at least one of the two elastomeric componentsincludes carbon-based nanoplatelets.

As an example, where a bore tool includes a plurality of elastomericcomponents, one elastomeric component can include a first elastomericmaterial composition and another of the elastomeric components caninclude a second elastomeric material composition that differs from thefirst elastomeric material composition. As an example, two elastomericcomponents of a bore tool can include a first Young's modulus of oneelastomeric component where another of the elastomeric componentsincludes a second Young's modulus that differs from the first Young'smodulus.

As an example, an elastomeric material that includes carbon-basednanoplatelets can include the carbon-based nanoplatelets at less thanapproximately 10 percent by weight.

As an example, an elastomeric material can include a fluoroelastomer andcarbon-based nanoplatelets. As an example, an elastomeric material caninclude a nitrile butadiene rubber (e.g., NBR type of elastomer) andcarbon-based nanoplatelets. As an example, an elastomeric material caninclude an ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer rubber (EPDM rubber or EPDMtype of elastomer).

As an example, a bore tool can include three elastomeric componentswhere the three elastomeric components include two end elastomericcomponents and an intermediate elastomeric component. In such anexample, one or more of the elastomeric components can includecarbon-based nanoplatelets. In such an example, the two end elastomericcomponents can include a Young's modulus that differs from a Young'smodulus of the intermediate elastomeric component.

As an example, a bore tool can include an elastomeric component,disposed about a perimeter surface, that does not include carbon-basednanoplatelets and an elastomeric component that does includecarbon-based nanoplatelets.

As an example, carbon-based nanoplatelets of an elastomeric componentcan include an average maximum platelet dimension less thanapproximately 50 microns and an average platelet thickness dimensionless than approximation 10 nanometers and/or, for example, carbon-basednanoplatelets include an average maximum platelet dimension less thanapproximately 25 microns and an average platelet thickness dimensionless than approximation 5 nanometers.

As an example, a method can include forming an elastomeric componentthat includes carbon-based nanoplatelets in an elastomeric matrix;fitting the elastomeric component about a perimeter surface of a toolthat includes a longitudinal axis; and tripping the tool into a bore ina geologic formation. In such an example, the carbon-based nanoplateletscan include chemically modified carbon-based nanoplatelets. As anexample, a method can include compressing an elastomeric component toexpand an outer perimeter of the elastomeric component where theelastomeric component includes carbon-based nanoplatelets.

As an example, a bore packer assembly can include a first endelastomeric element; an intermediate elastomeric element; and a secondend elastomeric element where at least one of the elastomeric elementsincludes carbon-based nanoparticles. In such an example, the compositionof the end elastomeric elements can differ from the composition of theintermediate elastomeric element.

As an example, one or more methods described herein may includeassociated computer-readable storage media (CRM) blocks. Such blocks caninclude instructions suitable for execution by one or more processors(or cores) to instruct a computing device or system to perform one ormore actions.

According to an embodiment, one or more computer-readable media mayinclude computer-executable instructions to instruct a computing systemto output information for controlling a process. For example, suchinstructions may provide for output to sensing process, an injectionprocess, drilling process, an extraction process, an applicationprocess, an extrusion process, a curing process, a tape forming process,a pumping process, a heating process, etc.

FIG. 18 shows components of a computing system 1800 and a networkedsystem 1810. The system 1800 includes one or more processors 1802,memory and/or storage components 1804, one or more input and/or outputdevices 1806 and a bus 1808. According to an embodiment, instructionsmay be stored in one or more computer-readable media (e.g.,memory/storage components 1804). Such instructions may be read by one ormore processors (e.g., the processor(s) 1802) via a communication bus(e.g., the bus 1808), which may be wired or wireless. The one or moreprocessors may execute such instructions to implement (wholly or inpart) one or more attributes (e.g., as part of a method). A user mayview output from and interact with a process via an I/O device (e.g.,the device 1806). According to an embodiment, a computer-readable mediummay be a storage component such as a physical memory storage device, forexample, a chip, a chip on a package, a memory card, etc.

According to an embodiment, components may be distributed, such as inthe network system 1810. The network system 1810 includes components1822-1, 1822-2, 1822-3, . . . 1822-N. For example, the components 1822-1may include the processor(s) 1802 while the component(s) 1822-3 mayinclude memory accessible by the processor(s) 1802. Further, thecomponent(s) 1802-2 may include an I/O device for display and optionallyinteraction with a method. The network may be or include the Internet,an intranet, a cellular network, a satellite network, etc.

Although only a few examples have been described in detail above, thoseskilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications arepossible in the examples. Accordingly, all such modifications areintended to be included within the scope of this disclosure as definedin the following claims. In the claims, means-plus-function clauses areintended to cover the structures described herein as performing therecited function and not only structural equivalents, but alsoequivalent structures. Thus, although a nail and a screw may not bestructural equivalents in that a nail employs a cylindrical surface tosecure wooden parts together, whereas a screw employs a helical surface,in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail and a screw may beequivalent structures. It is the express intention of the applicant notto invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6 for any limitations of any of theclaims herein, except for those in which the claim expressly uses thewords “means for” together with an associated function.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: fitting an elastomericcomponent about a perimeter surface of a tool that comprises alongitudinal axis, the elastomeric component comprising carbon-basednanoplatelets in an elastomeric matrix; and tripping the tool into abore in a geologic formation.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein thecarbon-based nanoplatelets comprise chemically modified carbon-basednanoplatelets.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising compressingthe elastomeric component to expand an outer perimeter of theelastomeric component.
 4. The method of claim 1, further comprisingsurface treating the carbon-based nanoplatelets.
 5. The method of claim1, wherein the elastomeric component that comprises carbon-basednanoplatelets in an elastomeric matrix comprises the carbon-basednanoplatelets at less than approximately 10 percent by weight.
 6. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the carbon-based nanoplatelets of theelastomeric component comprise an average maximum platelet dimensionless than approximately 50 microns.
 7. The method of claim 1, whereinthe carbon-based nanoplatelets of the elastomeric component comprise anaverage platelet thickness dimension less than approximately 10nanometers.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the fitting step comprisesfitting the elastomeric component about an inner perimeter surface ofthe tool.
 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising, after thefitting step, expanding the elastomeric component in a radial directionto alter an inner perimeter surface of the elastomeric component, anouter perimeter of the elastomeric component remaining relativelyconstant and in contact with the inner perimeter surface of theelastomeric component.
 10. The method of claim 8, further comprising,after the fitting step, expanding the elastomeric component in a radialdirection to alter an inner perimeter surface of the elastomericcomponent, an outer perimeter of the elastomeric component remainingrelatively constant and in contact with the inner perimeter surface ofthe elastomeric component.
 11. The method of claim 8, furthercomprising, after the fitting step, contracting the elastomericcomponent in a radial direction to alter an inner perimeter surface ofthe elastomeric component, an outer perimeter of the elastomericcomponent remaining relatively constant and in contact with the innerperimeter surface of the elastomeric component.
 12. The method of claim1, wherein the fitting step comprises fitting the elastomeric componentabout an outer perimeter surface of the tool.
 13. The method of claim 1,wherein the tool comprises a bore packer assembly.
 14. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the tool comprises slips.
 15. A method comprising:fitting a first elastomeric component about a perimeter surface of atool that comprises a longitudinal axis, the first elastomeric componentcomprising carbon-based nanoplatelets in an elastomeric matrix; fittinga second elastomeric component about the tool with respect to the firstelastomeric component; and tripping the tool into a bore in a geologicformation.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the first elastomericcomponent and the second elastomeric component contact each other. 17.The method of claim 15, wherein an axial gap exists between the firstelastomeric component and the second elastomeric component.
 18. Themethod of claim 15, wherein the first elastomeric component thatcomprises the carbon-based nanoplatelets in an elastomeric matrixcomprises the carbon-based nanoplatelets at less than approximately 10percent by weight.
 19. The method of claim 15, wherein the toolcomprises a bore packer assembly.
 20. The method of claim 15, whereinthe tool comprises slips.